Hostname: page-component-7b7567c8c-jswmv Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2026-11-15T19:52:10.947Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Semiconductor Crystal Growth and Segregation Problems on Earth And in Space

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2011

Harry C. Gatos*
Affiliation:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
Get access

Abstract

Crystals grown from the melt exhibit compositional and structural defects which limit the exploitation of their full potential in solid state electronics. The origin of these defects is related primarily to gravity-induced convective currents in the melt. In semiconductor compounds additional problems are introduced from variations in stoichiometry. Progress has been made recently in relating qualitatively, and in some instances quantitatively, the growth parameters to the materials properties of the crystals, and in turn to their electronic properties. Overcoming the presence of gravitational forces in space eliminates or minimizes convective interference and, thus, the quantitative assessment of the key growth parameters controlling the chemical and structural perfection of single crystals becomes possible. Results (obtained on earth) will be presented on the growth-property relationships of elemental and compound semiconductors. The advantages, as well as the limitations, that zero gravity conditions present for crystal growth will be discussed.

Information

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1982

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

Article purchase

Temporarily unavailable